Paterson: The IDC controls the Senate, and Cuomo wins

Ex-Gov. David Paterson shared his thoughts on the current unsettled state of the Senate in an article published in Sunday’s Times Union.

Although the Democrats picked up seats, Senate control will require 32 votes. It may take weeks before we know who the winners and losers are in this political battle for the Senate, but ultimately a coalition majority will be forged.

Rising above all this political uncertainty is one simple fact: No matter what happens come January, Gov. Andrew Cuomo will end up a winner either way.

If the Republicans return to power, he will still have an ally on his important economic agenda of job creation, low taxes, and regulatory relief. All are shared priorities between the Republicans and the governor.

If the Democrats win, Cuomo will be able to pass the social agenda that has been stymied by the Republicans: minimum wage, campaign finance reform and more intelligent marijuana possession laws. These are key parts of Cuomo’s unfinished agenda that will be much more likely to pass under Democratic control.